Volume 4

From the Keep ’Em Coming Back books

Behind the Bar

This page is a practical extension of Volume 4. The book explains the reasoning; this resource helps put it to work.

Cocktail family

Fizz & Collins

Sours lengthened with soda, often served tall and refreshing.

What defines the family

They connect shaking technique to carbonation discipline and guest-friendly refreshment.

The working formula

Think in relationships rather than one rigid ratio. Start with the intended strength, then control sweetness, acidity or bitterness, dilution, temperature, texture and aroma. Record the house result rather than relying on memory.

What bartenders should be able to explain

  • Which ingredient supplies strength.
  • Which ingredients provide balance and aroma.
  • What the technique changes.
  • How ice and glassware affect the result.
  • How the family can be adapted without losing its identity.

Representative drinks

  • Tom Collins
  • Gin Fizz
  • Ramos Gin Fizz
  • John Collins

Texas room application

Judge this family by the room: order frequency, service time, ingredient overlap, guest familiarity, price, spill risk and whether it can be taught consistently before a rush.

House-standard assignmentChoose one drink in this family. Record the approved ingredients, yield, glass, ice, garnish, build time, cost and quality check. Have two bartenders make it independently and compare the result.

Find recipes in the library